Latest Conferences from Policy Review TV

Higher Education Futures

Fri, 22 May 2015 00:00:00 BST

A management intelligence podcast from Policy Review exploring the challenges policy makers, managers and leading professionals may face over the coming years following the election of a new government.

Stimulate your thinking and planning and review your assumptions about government policy.

The Times Higher Education Young Universities Summit: embracing the unique challenges and opportunities facing the world’s dynamic young institutions

Mon, 28 Apr 2014 00:00:00 BST

The THE Young Universities Summit, which took place in Miami in April 2014 in partnership with the UK’s Plymouth University, was the first global gathering created for the leaders of the world’s young institutions (defined as those around 50 years old or younger). It attracted more than 130 senior delegates from more than 30 countries, creating a new space – and a new diary date in the global academic calendar – for a diverse group of university leaders to come together and share experience and expertise on the challenges and opportunities facing younger institutions.

Keynote speakers presented on issues including the development of institutional research strategy, leadership, funding and autonomy, branding and communications. The event also hosted a panel debate on the development of new metrics to capture a university’s social and economic impact to be used in global university rankings.

#THEyus

Videos of the entire event can be viewed for free on these pages.

Schools in the Cloud - Learning without teachers - it could not happen - could it? #cloudschoolsdebate

Tue, 11 Feb 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Learning without teachers – it couldn’t happen, could it?

Professor Sugata Mitra (Professor of Educational Technology at the University of Newcastle, England) has launched a $1m experiment to find out. His ‘schools in the cloud’ will allow groups of children to teach themselves using the internet.

Some claim that true learning cannot happen without teachers, and that there will always be a place for face-to-face teaching. But concepts such as Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are attracting a growing level of support. So what are the threats, and what are the opportunities?

The event will bring together a panel of experts (including Professor Sugata Mitra and Lord David Puttnam) to debate the future for face-to-face teaching and learning, and the ways in which technology could – and should – transform the fundamentals of education and assessment. It will bring together practitioners, researchers, policy makers and those with an interest in the field.

Shape of things to come 2: the evolution of transnational education

Thu, 05 Sep 2013 00:00:00 BST

This evening broadcast began with an overview of the research presented by Kevin Van-Cauterfrom British Council and John McNamara, Director, McNamara Economic Research followed by a discussion between a panel around key questions and chaired by Dr William Lawton, Director, Observatory on Borderless Higher Education, UK.

More details here

Debate: Future models of learning

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 00:00:00 BST

Will the teaching profession as we have known it become obselete?

Going Global 2013 #GOINGGLOBAL

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Going Global is an annual conference hosted by the British Council, offering an open forum for global leaders of international education to discuss issues facing the international education community. Since its inception in 2004, Going Global has grown from a bi-annual event in the UK to an annual event travelling the globe.

Each year it attracts over 1,000 registered delegates from across the tertiary (further and higher) education sectors and a variety of other industries with perspectives on international education.

Meeting Student Expectations and Complaints #stuex13

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

As students are now enrolled under the new funding regime and graduate employment remains sluggish, student expectations are expected to continue to rise. The Office of the Independent Adjudicator (OIA) has received a steady rise in formal complaints, and many institutions are reviewing their internal processes to speed up the internal procedures for dealing with complaints.

Private Providers in HE

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The new funding regime for higher education has significantly shifted the landscape for the sector. Many institutions previously in receipt of funding through teaching grant are largely reliant on tuition fee income. Government reforms have sought to actively encourage new providers to enter the higher education arena, and a small number of new providers have joined established private providers operating in the sector.

The Westminster Government’s Higher Education White Paper, ‘Students at the heart of the system’, set out the need for a ‘level playing field’ for providers, and in order to better understand the landscape BIS have commissioned a mapping exercise to better understand the alternative providers in the sector.

Private institutions in higher education are diverse in size, quality and mission. Some providers operate on a not-for-profit basis, with others looking to deliver a profit. Many are looking to work closely with employers to deliver a more vocationally oriented experience, and some have close connections with public institutions. The numbers with their own degree awarding powers are growing, and it seems likely that both the number and scope of private higher education providers will expand over the coming years.

FE Reputation and Marketing #FEmarketing

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

With the student cohort decreasing, FE providers have to work harder than ever to promote their offering to young people, parents, employers and the local community. Colleges’ marketing strategies must be targeted and cost-effective – but more than this, their reputations, and the reputation of Further and vocational education as a whole, are crucial to their success.

This online event will focus on how colleges can build the key components of a good reputation, and the most effective marketing strategies to promote this. Delegates will hear from top FE colleges which are developing their reputations at a local, national and international level, and attracting both students and high-quality partnerships.

Expert presentations will include successfully positioning colleges as HE providers, international development, engaging with the local community, employers and schools, and student recruitment. Senior managers from Further Education and training providers will come together with government representatives, PR and marketing experts to discuss the way forward for promoting UK FE.

Retention, Progression & Success in Higher Education #HEretention

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

As individual students bear an increased burden for the cost of their tuition, the focus on student retention and progression has increased. In addition, the debate about access into higher education has moved on from simply getting students to university but to making sure they are supported to thrive and succeed. The financial imperatives for institutions are considerable too, to ensure that students enrol are supported to complete and succeed.

Improving International Student Experience: Understanding the winds of change #iise

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The contribution of international students to the UK is enormous; culturally, academically and financially. The UK retains a substantial reputation for attracting and retaining international students from across the globe, but competition is intensifying.

Recent policy changes to international student visa regulations in the UK, and emerging challenges from key competitors teaching in English - particularly in the United States, Australia and Europe - mean that the environment for international student recruitment in the UK is facing a tough period for growing student numbers.

Bad headlines in relation to the international student experience and recruitment have also had an impact on the reputation of UK higher education abroad.

Watch the exchange between the UEA Vice Chancellor and the Home Office on the student visa debate

On-line discussion of the exchange here

Higher Education Shared Services Forum #hess12

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The resolution of the VAT obstacles to shared services open a range of collaboration, social enterprises, joint ventures, joint procurement and outsourcing possibilities. But strategic thinking needs to sit above agile responses.

Find out about shared services option and outsourcing strategies with universities and colleges, other public sector organisations in your locality and with the private sector.

Be open to all the possibilities understand the strategic consequences both within the specialist areas of HE such as libraries, research, registry but also general functions of HR, finance, estates, transport , maintenance and digital service

Taught Postgraduates #postgrads12

Tue, 27 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Postgraduate Taught provision remains a crucial component of UK higher education, but has arguably been overlooked by successive governments who have failed to bring together a credible and coherent strategy.

As the impact of reforms to undergraduate funding begin to take affect, institutions are considering the implications for future taught postgraduate recruitment. The changes to immigration rules, combined with recent negative headlines associated with international students mean that institutions are considering how to ensure that can reach and exceed their recruitment targets in challenging circumstances.

Students themselves are continuing to demand a high quality experience, and this conference will share effective practice to deliver on a high quality postgraduate taught experience.

Enhancing Student Experience #hexperience12

Thu, 22 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The student experience has been at the heart of the higher education debate for several years, but what are institutions doing to really improve it? How can you stay ahead of the game, and ensure that the UK can continue to be competitive in an increasingly global market.

The first year of higher tuition fees will clearly bring heightened demands, and many institutions are concerned about the prospect of an increased litigation from ever more discerning students. The absence of a clear response from the Westminster government in relation to their White Paper adds to the uncertainty at the time of the biggest shift in funding for the sector. Whilst ever more diverging policy from the 4 UK nations, means that making the case for UK higher education becomes more and more difficult.

Graduate Talent and Employability: Meeting student expectations #grademployability

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

With the increase in tuition fees and the ongoing challenges in the jobs market, the focus on graduate employability continues to be intense. Employers looking at their future workforce are examining the balance of skills and knowledge they need from their graduates, and how they can best work with universities and colleges to support future cohorts of employees.

Universities, partly driven by the increasing interest that students and applicants are taking in employability and the growing prominence of destination statistics are focussing more heavily on the employability agenda. We have also seen a rise in the prominence of employability awards, and the findings of the Wilson Review examining university – business relationships taking effect across the sector.

Access and Admissions to Higher Education #accessHE

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As the first cohort of students enter higher education under the new funding regime, questions are already being asked about whether demand will recover from the 10% drop in England in 2012 and what more the higher education sector can do to improve access and admissions across the United Kingdom.

This online event will learn from good practice on access and outreach, consider how access agreements can continue to be fit for purpose and establish how collaborative activity can deliver for your institution.

Future Strategies for University and College Libraries #HElibraries

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:00:00 BST

Broadcast from London

The issue facing academic and research libraries today is what should their role be in the changing academic and technological landscape. This has been compunded by the continued financial pressures facing universities as a whole.

As with any service under pressure; it is vital to explore innovative ways to improve quality provision at a reduced cost. Rising tuition fees will inevitably result in a rise in student expectations but with the impetus on improved student experience, HEIs are provided the opportunity to explore innovation and efficiency.

This broadcast will provide viewers the opportunity to explore best practice in promoting services, delivering first class research support, improving the student experience and implementing income generating models of work. This is the must view event for anyone working in HE library services.

Supported by:

Distinctiveness in HE Marketing in a new era - defining your offer #emhe12

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:00:00 BST

Marketing in Higher Education is going through a revolution and is being tested by new funding and competitors. The applications for 2012 are already producing unexpected patterns. With the new funding regime; price variability for undergraduate students and increased competition for student places, distinctiveness and effective marketing is crucial in order to stand out in a more aggressive market.

Yet for many institutions the competition is in more than one market. Along with competition for student places are increasing expectations for students on arrival, meaning institutions are having to ensure their marketing is particularly relevant and distinctive for this new era.

Ensure your institution stands out to prospective students at undergraduate; postgraduate; international or specialist level.

Consider how to secure your institution in a more competitive system and demonstrate the strategic role of a strong marketing function in HE management.

Higher Education in FE Colleges - Collaboration and Competition: degrees of change #HEinFE

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 00:00:00 BST

In these changing and challenging times, it is vital to create a sustainable model for delivering Higher Education to a local audience in a Further Education College.

This event brings together senior representatives from Further and Higher education to discuss the way forward for Higher Education provision in Further Education Colleges, and considers new opportunities for collaboration and continuing cooperation in a new higher education policy landscape.

FE Teaching and Learning Conference - New challenges and new chances #FEteaching

Thu, 27 Sep 2012 00:00:00 BST

Ofsted has announced that of the 84 colleges inspected in 2010/11, not one was rated outstanding for ‘teaching and learning’.

Furthermore, 16 colleges were given only 'satisfactory' as their overall grade for the third inspection in a row.

As a result, Ofsted stated: “We propose to focus more sharply on how well leadership and management improve the quality of teaching and learning and raise learners’ aspirations and achievements.”

Issues of changing inspection frameworks; funding constraints and the single college variations in the standards of teaching assert the need to explore best practice in achieving excellence in teaching and learning.

This annual conference provides delegates the opportunity to gain the tools needed to focus on the overall student experience, outcomes for learners and effective management.

FE and Skills Inspection: Achieving 'Outstanding' #feis2012

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 BST

Broadcast from London

Are you ready for the new Common Inspection Framework?

The 2012 revised Common Inspection Framework for Further Education and Skills planned to bring a number of critical changes to the inspection process.

The biggest single change likely to affect you is the notice period for inspections. This will be reduced from 3 weeks to a maximum of 2 days. Given inspections on more or less ‘surprise’ basis, how do you best prepare staff and students?

Also, under the new framework, providers will not be rated ‘outstanding’ without outstanding teaching, learning and assessment. Meanwhile, the 'satisfactory' rating will be replaced with 'requires improvement’, and providers will be re-inspected within 12 to 18 months.

Watch this conference and you will be able to benchmark your provision against leading colleges. You’ll also be able to question Ofsted representatives, so you get a true understanding of the new inspection framework. Plus, you’ll share experiences with the colleges involved in the CIF pilot project.

Research Excellence Framework Strategies for success #ref12

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 00:00:00 BST

As we approach the upcoming Research Excellence Framework, this conference will consider the implications for higher education, but also debate how institutions can look to maximise their impact. In a changing environment which provides new challenges and opportunities, learn from those shaping the new world and how it can impact on your institution.

We will also examine the important relationship between UK research growth and stimulating economic growth, and engagement with the public.

Manchester Network Hub:

Facilitator: Janet Knowles, Partner, Eversheds LLP

Functional Skills - Making the transition from policy to implementation

Wed, 11 Jul 2012 00:00:00 BST

From August, Functional Skills will become a compulsory part of all substantive further education courses, replacing Adult Basic Skills and Key Skills.

This broadcast of the Functional Skills conference will look at how providers manage the necessary transition; upskilling teaching staff and embedding the new programmes into existing areas of the curriculum, as well as the role of technology and new flexible teaching methods.

Online viewers will be able to watch live and on-demand; participate in interactive discussions and feed back to the main conference in London.

Higher Education and Schools Partnerships Day: Ensuring access in a new funding landscape #heschools

Wed, 04 Jul 2012 00:00:00 BST

4th Annual conference

Individual HE and school partnership programmes have replaced the national structure and standards of Aimhigher, and collaboration between Higher Education Institutions and schools is entering a new era.

In accordance with their 2012-13 access agreements, HEIs are initiating and administrating a huge variety of different local and regional programmes and forms of partnership, some for the first time. Severe financial penalties from HEFCE are threatened for those who fail to deliver, and OFFA has the power to prevent non-compliant institutions from charging above the standard level of tuition fees in future years.

HEIs and schools who are pioneering innovative ways of working together discuss their methods and provide an in-depth look at activities and relationships that are cost-effective and productive.

Regional and national consortia and networks discuss how to maintain a broad perspective on partnerships in this new funding landscape.

This broadcast sees Vice-Chancellors, Headteachers and College Principals, along with Partnership and Widening Participation Managers, discuss the future of HE and school partnerships.

HEA Annual Conference 2012: Great expectations – are you ready?

Tue, 03 Jul 2012 00:00:00 BST

Higher education is undergoing transformational change throughout the UK and although policies may be diverging amongst the four nations, the principle of students being central is shared. Their expectations of their course, institution and learning experience are rising.

Staff and Institutions have their own aims and expectations too. In the year of the London Olympics where competitors have expectations of winning and are preparing to be ready for the challenge we apply the theme to the higher education sector and explore its implications for 2012.

There are three main strands: Student expectations and the learning experience; Supporting staff to deliver student learning experiences of a lifetime; Institutional adaptability.

The Future of Further Education Forum 2012 - New challenges and new chances #fefutures

Wed, 20 Jun 2012 00:00:00 BST

More than ever, as budget restrictions take effect, it is vital that colleges, community learning services and work-based learning providers develop precise and informed strategies.

Cuts to the 19+Learning budget; a fall in student enrolment and the funding gap has resulted in increasing challenges to the education system across the board.

These difficulties provide an opportunity to look to new innovative ways to improve services; attract new students; make savings through shared services, smart procurement and technology, and look to global markets.

This annual forum brings together senior leaders and managers of FE and sixth form colleges; training providers and providers of adult education and work-based learning to discuss the future of the sector and address the challenges they will face.

Higher Education beyond 2015 #HE2015

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 00:00:00 BST

The full institutional implications and possibilities of changes to Higher Education funding are emerging. This conference brought together institutional leaders to evaluate and discuss the possible futures for higher education in the United Kingdom.

Looking to 2015 and beyond you will hear new thinking about where next for the sector, and consider how institutions can position themselves effectively to be in a strong position heading into the future.

Globalisation and new technologies have disrupted retail; torn apart the publishing models of the last century; completely changed newspapers and the media; seen completely new entrants move to dominance: why should Higher Education be any different?

This conference examined the sustainability of the present finance arrangements, the current core and margin model for student distribution, postgraduate provision as well hearing new perspectives and challenges for the future of UK higher education.

The shape of things to come

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 00:00:00 BST

Promoting excellence in teaching and learning in higher education #HEteaching

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 00:00:00 BST

Funding for teaching in UK Higher Education is changing. Interim measures are in place for 2012-13 and a HEFCE consultation on future funding plans is currently taking place.

Whatever the outcome, the move to demand-led funding has crucial implications for many aspects of teaching and learning.

With more students choosing flexible and blended learning, the boundaries between full; part-time and distance learners are blurring. Not only are institutions being challenged to teach and support an increasingly diverse student cohort – this also requires additional quality assurance guidance.

The use of open educational resources (OER) is also increasing, bringing a new range of opportunities and challenges for teaching and learning. Finally, as more information becomes available to students via Key Information Sets (KIS) data, institutions will have to respond to changing expectations of the student experience.

Watch the free presentation - Professor Craig Mahoney, Chief Executive of the Higher Education Academy here

The Future of Apprenticeships #apprenticeships12

Tue, 29 May 2012 00:00:00 BST

Policy Review TV broadcast this event in High Definition.

The Future of Apprenticeships was debated at the 5^th National Conference where speakers included business leaders, government officials and cabinet members. Purchase now to watch from the comfort of your own computer and still join in via Twitter (#~~apprenticeships12~~) and Policy Review TV.

The Government has actively promoted the value of apprenticeships over the last 18 months. Policies such as the new Higher Apprenticeship Fund; new incentive payment schemes to businesses and the piloting of an outcome payment pilot for large-scale employers have resulted in a 63.5% increase in the number of apprenticeships.

Although a step in the right direction, there is still much to achieve in reducing unemployment; ensuring the financial feasibility of apprenticeship schemes; enhancing quality provision and promoting positive engagement with small and medium enterprises.

This event is a must-see for FE and HE providers, small to medium-sized businesses, trade associates and all those aiming to increase apprenticeship opportunities and employer engagement.

Delegates to this online event conference will:

hear how the Government is tackling issues of quality in apprenticeship delivery;
consider funding opportunities for apprenticeship programmes;
explore what can be done to improve minimum standards in apprenticeship provision;
examine and remove the barriers to businesses in considering apprenticeships;
assess funding opportunities through the Youth Contract;
gain a greater understanding of the issues involved.

Student Immigration: can the UK retain its international position? #studentimmigration

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 BST

NEWS STORY: 'Student route has a part to play' in reducing net migration

Recent changes to immigration policy risk seeing the UK lose its international position as a favoured destination for international students.

At a time of great change in higher education, and with recent alterations to visa regulations settling in, this conference evaluated what this means for the sector. It also debated the merits of removing student immigration from the overall figures, and considered what UK institutions can do to retain their competitive edge.

Key issues covered include:

impact of the changes to the Post-Study Work visa
should international students be removed from the overall immigration figures?
have crucial routes into higher education been protected?

Can't Speak, Can't Learn: What's the Impact of Non-Native Speakers in Schools?

Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 BST

#cacscl

As experts in assessment, we believe it is our duty to provide a forum to debate key educational issues. This event focused on English as an Additional Language (EAL).

The proportion of primary school children speaking other languages at home has doubled in the past decade. The DfE estimates that nearly one million pupils do not speak English as a first language (schools census January 2011).

It is hard to spot a 'gifted and talented' pupil if they are held back by language challenges. It is also hard to spot those with genuine educational needs. What impact does this have on teachers and the education of mainstream students? How can we ensure every child can access the whole curriculum?

Cambridge Assessment addressed the following questions during the conference:

1. How might all subject teachers have a grounding in language teaching nowadays?

2. To what extent can we say that 'every teacher is a language teacher'?

3. How can we be sure that potential 'gifted and talented' non-native speakers are being identified as such?

4. How can teachers ensure that silent or challenged non-native speakers are not misdiagnosed as having special educational needs?

5. In what ways do schools encourage the learning and maintenance of students' mother tongues?

IfL broadcast: The future of our profession #IfL_Views

Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 BST

IfL held an online broadcast on Tuesday 22 May 2012 to enable IfL members to discuss the issues raised in the recent Lingfield review and IfL’s consultation on this subject.

More information on the independent review can be found on the IfL website click here,

8th Offender's Learning, Skills and Employability Conference #offender12

Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 BST

In May 2011 the Government proposed reforms to the adult offender education system with a greater emphasis on the results that education and training delivers for offenders.

Subsequently, policy and funding opportunities made available through the Work Programme, Youth Contract and apprenticeships, have further highlighted the benefits of skills and employment to rehabilitation.

But although plenty of progress has been made during financially constrained times, there is still much to be learnt in achieving best practice in the delivery of learning and skills training both within secure units and increasingly through community sentences.

View this national conference online to hear key speakers from government; the secure estate; probation; business; education and local government debate the issues and set out the strategy for offender learning.

Fundraising and Philanthropy in Higher Education #HEFundraising

Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 BST

New techniques, new opportunities and moving forward after Woolf

What opportunities do the much publicised reductions in government spending present to institutions to build a culture of voluntary giving?

How will the Lord Woolf Inquiry change institutional attitudes to fundraising, and what safeguards need to be in place?

How can we learn from global good practice?

Institutions are looking for support to secure large-scale foundation funding. In the context of an increasingly globalised market, advice to compete and leverage opportunities in China, Middle East, India, Latin America and Russia is vital.

View this conference online to examine how to sustain the gains that have been made and the critical future role of major donors, philanthropy and alumni funding.

10th National Sure Start Conference #surestart12

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 BST

The Sure Start conference continues to be the essential event for all Children's Centre Leaders and Local Authority Officers, equipping attendees with the most up-to-the-minute policy and best-practice guidance.

Challenging times require new ways of working to ensure sustainability, quality and the best possible outcomes for families.

This year, speakers shared their expertise and knowledge through a series of forward-thinking plenary sessions, panel debates and best-practice workshops.

Reforming Higher Education Admissions annual conference #reformhe

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 BST

Both the Browne Review and Higher Education White Paper have signalled the need for change in higher education admissions. Now the findings from the UCAS Admissions Process Review provide a sound evidence base to move the debate forward and consider how proposed changes will affect institutional practice.

With more scrutiny than ever before on higher education admissions, and institutions facing the need to ensure that the process is managed fairly, this conference provided a timely moment to consider how institutional practice can be changed and improved.

The debate over the possible introduction of Post Qualification Application, and the most effective use of contextual data, was also be examined.

This conference brought together leaders in admissions in higher education to provide online viewers with the policy insight and management strategy and new techniques they need for success in an increasingly challenging discipline.

Independent Commission into Adult Education and Vocational Pedagogy – Teacher and Trainer symposium #vocped

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 BST

The Institute for Learning, in partnership with the Learning and Skills Improvement Service (LSIS) and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS), is supporting the Independent Commission into Adult Vocational Learning.

The purpose of this event was to share findings collected by IfL from over 120 practitioner expert testimonies - with teachers and trainers from three vocational areas, in addition to three vocational learner groups.

The Commission is chaired by Frank McLoughlin CBE, City and Islington College principal. The full Commission will commence in May 2012.

Retention and Progression in Higher Education #HEretention

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 BST

Through the recent reforms to funding and the Higher Education White Paper, the government have placed an even greater emphasis on student retention and progression. Although huge amounts of the access infrastructure have been removed - such as AimHigher - this conference looks at how institutions have responded and what new national initiatives are in place.

The conference also looked at the schemes and best-practice from the third sector, as well as the increasingly important task of measuring and recording universities' success at improving student retention.

International Partnerships; Transnational Education - delivering UK Higher Education worldwide

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 00:00:00 BST

#hepartnerships

There are now more students studying for a qualification from a UK university abroad than there are international students in the UK, according to a recent report by the UK Higher Education International and Europe Unit.

The rise of transnational education (TNE) offers unprecedented international expansion and partnership opportunities to UK Higher Education Institutions. Options include dual and joint degrees, blended and e-learning, accreditation and validation, and branch campuses. However, this also requires HEIs to address important quality assurance and student experience issues around these programmes and partnerships.

Viewers of this conference will gain insight into delivering transnational education in all its forms, including negotiating and maintaining successful partnerships with overseas institutions, and the possibilities offered by developing markets and new models of learning.

What Works? Student Retention & Success

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 BST

This Conference takes a research-informed approach to answering the question ‘what works’ to improve student retention and success in higher education. It presents the outcomes from the three-year What Works? programme, including the key findings, the conceptual model and specific details and tools from the seven projects. In addition, it showcases the best evidence-informed approaches to what works from across the UK HE sector and beyond through peer-reviewed papers.

The conference was jointly organised by the Higher Education Academy and Action on Access as part of the ‘What Works? Student Retention and Success Programme’ initiated and funded by the Paul Hamlyn Foundation and the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE).

Student Recruitment and Retention in FE Colleges - Tackling the falling numbers of students #R&RinFE

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 00:00:00 BST

Despite an increase in school sixth-form students, colleges and training providers have seen demand fall and recruitment targets missed. While the Department for Education pledged to launch an investigation into reduced recruitment commentators quickly cited the loss of EMA; the increase in costs of university fees; competition from other colleges, and unaffordable transport as causes.

This conference provides viewers with the unique opportunity to seek solutions to recruitment and retention challenges through best practice presentations exploring brand identity, marketing, communications, and student experience. Leading professionals provide insight into what has worked for them in ensuring the operational and strategic aims and objectives of their FE institution are met.

For further information contact Paul Rushworth on 020 7960 4364, or e-mail paul.rushworth@neilstewartassociates.co.uk

Shared Services for Further Education - Strategies for Results #ssfe12

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 00:00:00 BST

Why you must view this conference:

• Get an insider’s briefing on what services FE colleges are successfully sharing and how best to maximise cost savings;

• Understand the obstacles and key success factors in commissioning shared services – quality, technical, legal, VAT and HR;

• Learn from your peers - eight FE colleges share their experiences of delivering shared services;

• Define your strategy for shared services – understand the structural differences between outsourcing, sharing collaboratively and centralising.

3rd Broadcast National Conference: Information, Advice and Guidance #IAG12

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The provision of objective information on learning and career opportunities is vital to ensure young people make thoughtful and well-informed choices about their next steps in education, training or employment.

The importance of information, advice and guidance (IAG) was further highlighted in the Government’s 2011 Education Bill, giving schools autonomy and flexibility in developing their own careers education programmes.

With the implementation of the Education Bill, the development of the first all-age careers service for England and the release of the Importance of Teaching White Paper; schools, colleges and local authorities were left pondering how best to implement the new requirements to ensure that every young person is provided the best possible start to adult life.

Strategically timed for just before the implementation of the government’s all-age careers service, this conference brought together experts and leaders from schools, the further and higher education sectors, local authorities and all others involved in the provision of IAG to hear what the future holds.

Going Global 2012 #GG2012 - three day event

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 00:00:00 GMT

On this page you can watch a selection of presentations and panels from the sixth Going Global conference from the British Council, which took place 13-15 March 2012 at the QE2 Centre in London, England.

More than 500 university Presidents, Vice-Chancellors and sector leaders were among the 1500 delegates who attended, making it the biggest ever forum for higher education leaders.

More than 80 countries were represented, as leaders from government, academia and industry debated a new vision of international education for the 21st century.

Graduate Employability 2012 #grademployability

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Improving Understanding among students, institutions, business; avoiding "Generation Crunch”.

This conference looked at initiatives to improve graduate employability, highlighting the need for a diverse and holistic approach to improving employability skills. A degree no longer guarantees a job. Institutions need to embed employability proficiency into courses and students must look outside the classroom to enhance their skill set through work placements, internships, voluntary and community work.

As fees rise universities will work harder to attract students and employability will be a focus for many prospective students. Desires and demands from all sides must be more transparent to ensure today's student is supported to becomes tomorrow's valuable employee.

This conference showcased the tools and innovations that students, institutions, professional bodies, trade bodies, skills providers, employers and the government are engaging to drive us through this demanding time. How do graduates of 'generation crunch’ emerge as individuals better equipped for employment in a global market?

Broadcast National Conference Meeting Student Expectations, Contract or Partnership

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

With keynote speakers Peter Vicary-Smith, Chief Executive, Which? and Anthony McClaran, Chief Executive, Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education.

Set in the context of the Higher Education White Paper this important national conference brought together policy makers, student support professionals, student representatives and senior HE administrators with legal experts and data-mining professionals to consider the impact that the new financial situation will have on student behaviour and institutional response.

As the implications of the new variable tuition fee regime come into place, universities must consider how student demand and hope will change. Differential fees presage a new era of heightened expectations across different institutions and courses.

Students have high expectations and, with student complaints on the rise, even seemingly isolated cases have the potential to significantly detract from the institution's or the UK’s reputation for excellence in higher education.

How can universities and colleges monitor and track student expectations and understand perceptions and reputation? How can colleges and universities identify issues and tackle them? How will managements expect academics and support services to raise their game – and how will that be measured?

Consideration was also given to how new initiatives such as Student Charter and the Key Information Set will provide a platform for institutions to supply more transparent information about the courses on offer, and how they will relate to rising expectations.

For further information contact Paul Rushworth on 020 7960 6845, or
e-mail paul.rushworth@neilstewartassociates.co.uk

Learning comes first: shifting the focus from examining to the curriculum

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

This Cambridge Assessment-hosted event debated what a good programme of learning should look like.

Ample evidence shows a curriculum is at the heart of the learning experience a school offers its pupils, and at the heart of the mission and vision of that school. Good curricula develop learners’ understanding, knowledge and skills. So what should a good curriculum – or, a good education – look like?

Presenters included Jon Coles, former Director General for Education Standards, Department of Education, and Dr Nadia Touba, Project Director of Nile Egyptian Schools NES – Egyptian Education Fund, Cabinet of Ministers – Egypt, while Nansi Ellis, Head of Education Policy & Research, ATL; Richard Earp, Education & Skills Manager, National Grid and Dr Stephen Spurr, Headmaster of Westminster School, were among the panellists.

Improving the International Student Experience

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

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The UK retains a substantial reputation for attracting and retaining international students from across the globe.

However, recent policy changes to international student visa regulations in the UK, and emerging challenges from key competitors teaching in English - particularly in the United States, Australia and Europe - mean that the environment for international student recruitment in the UK is facing a tough period for growing student numbers.

This national broadcast conference brought together policy and practice presentations from national policy makers and key stakeholders to consider the impact of recent policy changes, particularly in relation to international student visa regulations; shared best practice on the successful recruitment and retention of international students; examined developing internationalisation strategies in universities and colleges and looked at how to maintain and exceed international students’ expectations.

2nd Annual Conference, Private Provision in UK HE

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Twitter: #PPINHE

Private provision in Higher Education is set to expand beyond the professional and postgraduate spheres. This conference, timed to follow the Department for Business and Innovation’s empowering and protection consumers’ consultation will explore the future of private provision in UK HE. Sector leaders will provide guidance and examples of best practice in working alongside private providers.

The Higher Education White Paper opens up the HE market- moving away from funding classification towards results. The government wants to enable a wide range of providers to stimulate competition, create innovation and provide genuine choice for students.

With any opportunity comes a challenge and HE private provision is no exception. Should HE institutions compete or collaborate? And what mechanisms, legal frameworks, leadership structures and regulation make expanded private provision workable?